Samuel Lee Downing

Samuel Lee Downing, a man whose life was a testament to devotion, hard work, and love, passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on August 13, 2026, at Ayers Health and Rehab Center in Trenton, Florida. Born on November 29, 1935, in Wilcox, Florida, Samuel was the beloved son of Thomas F and Florence V Downing. Samuel's early life was marked by responsibility and dedication. When his father passed away, he courageously left school at the tender age of 13 to manage the family farm, a decision that showcased his unwavering commitment to his family. This sense of duty would define his entire life. In 1955, Samuel married the love of his life, Eleanor L Smith, with whom he shared 71 beautiful years of marriage until her passing. Together, they raised a loving family, instilling in their children the values of love, determination, and faith that they held dear. Samuel proudly served his country in the U.S. Army from 1957 to 1960, stationed in Tacoma, Washington, where he served as a cook for his unit. After his military service, he returned to Florida and embarked on a diverse and fulfilling career. He worked at Maddox Foundry and Myrick Construction in Archer before becoming a Foreman for the City of Gainesville. In the late 1960s, he pursued his entrepreneurial spirit by starting a construction business with his brother, Bill Everett. In 1972, Samuel founded Sam’s West Coast Shrimp, where he hauled bait shrimp until his retirement in 2021. A man of deep faith, Samuel was a devoted member of the Church of Christ since 1951, where he served as a song leader for many years. His love for the Lord was evident in all aspects of his life, and he was always ready to offer his service to others. Samuel found joy in the simple pleasures of life, such as fishing and hunting. These hobbies brought him peace and happiness, allowing him to connect with nature and the world around him. He was a man who embodied love and strength, a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. Samuel's legacy lives on through his surviving children: S Lane Downing (Michelle), Donna M McClelland (Roy), and Deana L Tumlin (Thomas). He was blessed with a large family, including grandchildren Alisha L Cassidy (Lee), Russell L Downing (Angela), Denielle Lucas (Timothy), Taylor Cole (Tanner), Georgia Sphaler (Aulbre), Jordan Downing, Jennifer L Cramer (Marc), Tristan R Morrison (Kori), Kyle A Morrison (Ashley), Jessica A Joiner (Jason), Jakob W McClelland (Melissa), T Brandon Tumlin (Rebecca), Travis J Tumlin (Kelli), Heather M Cruz (Peter), as well as 8 great-grandchildren and 8 great-great-grandchildren. He is predeceased by his loving wife Eleanor, his parents, his brothers and sisters, and his granddaughters Melissa and Marissa Tumlin. Though he is no longer with us, Samuel's spirit of kindness and faith will forever influence the lives of those he touched. Samuel Lee Downing will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love and service will endure in the hearts of his family and friends. Funeral services will be held at 12 p.m. Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Rick Gooding Funeral Home Chiefland Chapel. Brother John Zellner will officiate. Following the funeral service, interment will take place at Bethel Cemetery in Trenton, FL. Viewing will be prior to the service from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Rick Gooding Funeral Home Chiefland Chapel for friends and family. Arrangements have been placed under the care of the Rick Gooding Funeral Home Chiefland Chapel, with locations in Cross City (352) 498-5400 and Chiefland (352) 493-0050.

Samuel Lee Downing

November 29, 1935 - August 13, 2026